Tigers Shake Up Roster, Designate Jason Foley Amid Offseason Moves

The Detroit Tigers made headlines Tuesday by designating former closer Jason Foley for assignment, a move that underscores the team’s active approach to reshaping its roster ahead of the Rule 5 Draft. Foley, who saved 28 games in his last healthy MLB season in 2024, has not pitched in the majors since undergoing shoulder surgery in May 2025.

The organization announced Foley’s designation and a series of other transactions on X (formerly Twitter), highlighting the breadth of its offseason adjustments. The moves are part of Detroit’s effort to create space on the 40-man roster and position the team for continued success.

Foley’s departure marks a notable change in a bullpen that struggled late in 2025. The Tigers aim to improve durability and reliability in relief pitching after back-to-back playoff appearances, emphasizing long-term sustainability over past performance.

Alongside bullpen changes, the Tigers retained offensive stability by re-signing 2025 All-Star infielder Gleyber Torres. Torres accepted his qualifying offer, agreeing to a one-year, $22.05 million deal that ensures a steady presence in the middle of the lineup behind ace Tarik Skubal.

1. Bullpen Restructuring

Foley’s designation reflects the Tigers’ prioritization of long-term bullpen health. At 27, Foley had previously been a key closer, but a shoulder injury sidelined him for the entirety of 2025. The organization viewed his absence as an opportunity to retool the relief corps. Detroit’s bullpen struggled late in the 2025 season, contributing to the team’s loss of the AL Central lead. The front office is now emphasizing durability and depth, aiming to avoid late-season fatigue that cost crucial games in back-to-back playoff runs. By opening roster space, the Tigers can explore additional options in free agency, trades, or internal promotions. The move signals a willingness to make tough decisions despite Foley’s prior contributions, emphasizing performance sustainability over past success. The reshaped bullpen is expected to blend experience with younger, more durable arms, providing flexibility for Skubal and the rotation as Detroit looks to maintain its competitiveness in 2026.

2. Preserving Offensive Core

While the Tigers focus on pitching, they retained key contributors on offense. Gleyber Torres’ decision to accept the qualifying offer provides continuity in the middle of the lineup, offering veteran leadership alongside elite pitching talent. Torres’ 2025 season earned him All-Star honors, cementing his role as a cornerstone in Detroit’s offensive strategy. His one-year deal allows the club to balance payroll flexibility with maintaining proven production. The front office’s approach underscores a dual strategy: invest in high-upside young talent while preserving reliable veterans in key roles. Torres’ presence ensures stability as the team evaluates its roster ahead of critical free-agent and developmental decisions. Torres also offers versatility and plate discipline, qualities that complement the Tigers’ evolving lineup and enhance run production opportunities behind Skubal and other rotation standouts.

3. Protecting the Future

Beyond immediate roster decisions, the Tigers safeguarded several prospects ahead of the Rule 5 Draft. Trei Cruz, Hao-Yu Lee, Eduardo Valencia, Thayron Liranzo, and Jake Miller were all added to the 40-man roster, reflecting Detroit’s commitment to long-term development. Cruz and Lee provide infield versatility and strong plate discipline, offering depth for multiple positions. Valencia and Liranzo bring offensive upside, including power potential that could contribute to the major league club in the near term. Miller, a left-handed pitcher, adds starter-caliber ability and strikeout potential, reinforcing the organization’s pitching depth as it looks toward future rotation and bullpen options. These protections highlight the Tigers’ careful balance of present competitiveness and future growth. Overall, the moves signal a front office prioritizing roster flexibility and upside. With Skubal’s window as a team-controlled ace, Detroit is aligning its talent pipeline and immediate roster to maximize both short-term contention and long-term stability.